Positive Health Online

Abstract

TAN and others, Michael E. DeBakey VA Medical Center, Baylor College of Medicine, Houston, TX 77030, USA, tan.gabriel@med.va.gov, have reviewed (57 references) hypnosis and irritable bowel syndrome. Abstract: Despite its prevalence, there remains a significant lack of effective medical treatments for IBS to date. This paper reviews a total of 14 published studies involving a total of 644 patients on the efficacy of hypnosis in treating IBS (8 with no control group and 6 with a control group). The authors conclude that hypnosis consistently produces significant results and improves the cardinal symptoms of IBS in the majority of patients, as well as positively affecting non-colonic symptoms. When evaluated according to the efficacy guidelines of the Clinical Psychology Division of American Psychological Association, the use of hypnosis with IBS qualifies for the highest level of acceptance as being both efficacious and specific. In reviewing the research on the mechanism of action as to how hypnosis works to reduce symptoms of IBS, some evidence was found

Background

Methodology

Results

Conclusion

References

Tan G, Hammond DC, Joseph G. Hypnosis and irritable bowel syndrome: a review of efficacy and mechanism of action. American Journal of Clinical Hypnosis 47 (3): 161-178, Jan 2005.

Comment

The above research from the Mayo Clinic and Baylor College indicate the efficacy of hypnosis for a wide range of medical conditions, including IBS. Both sets of authors recommend that the role hypnosis in medical treatment be expanded.